In today’s industrial market, both new and refurbished robots have a legitimate and distinct role within automation strategies. Neither option is universally better; instead, each suits particular technical, operational, and financial requirements. The right decision shouldn’t be based on personal preference, but should come from a careful, comparative analysis that takes into account measurable criteria such as life cycle, technical specifications, cost, support, availability, and the project’s overall aim.
When it comes to technical features and performance, a new robot arrives fresh from the factory with zero operating hours, no component wear, and the latest technology the manufacturer offers. This could mean improvements in speed, repeatability, motion control, or energy efficiency, depending on the model’s generation.
By comparison, a properly refurbished robot maintains the original manufacturer’s specifications—such as payload, reach, repeatability, and mechanical design—as long as it’s been restored according to proper standards. In practice, for standard applications like welding, palletising, material handling, or other repetitive tasks, a refurbished robot can perform just as well as a new one, provided the process doesn’t require the most cutting-edge technology or features only found in the latest models.
Looking at life cycle, maintenance, and longevity, industrial robots are designed to run for thousands of hours with the right upkeep. A new robot gives you a full operational life, making it the ideal choice for long-term projects expecting intensive growth and continuous heavy use for years to come. A refurbished robot, on the other hand, starts from a midpoint in its life, but can still deliver stable performance if its limits are respected. For processes where demands aren’t extreme—such as repetitive parts, moderate pacing, or controlled shifts—a refurbished robot can provide reliable service for a considerable period without compromising operations.
Availability and lead times are also key considerations. New robots may be subject to manufacturing schedules, global demand, logistical delays, or waiting lists—depending on the model and region—which can be critical for plants needing a swift start-up. Refurbished robots, however, are often available immediately or with much shorter lead times, which is especially useful for projects that need a quick response, urgent equipment replacement, or a sudden boost in capacity.
There’s a significant cost difference between new and refurbished robots. For many facilities, return on investment is a top priority: the quicker the investment is recouped, the more viable the project. New robots require a higher upfront investment, which is justified when state-of-the-art features, high-volume operations, or critical processes demanding top performance are essential. Refurbished robots lower the initial outlay without sacrificing essential functionality, speeding up the ROI and freeing up capital for other needs—like tooling, software, infrastructure, safety, or operational expansion.
As for recommended uses, new robots are best suited for highly dynamic or extremely precise applications, cells needing integration with the latest digital technologies, or critical processes where maximum lifespan is required. Refurbished robots are perfect for repetitive MIG/MAG or TIG welding, palletising, pick and place, part handling, polishing, deburring, or finishing where parameters are already well established. They’re also a great fit for pilot projects, rapid expansions, proof of concept trials, or for plants aiming to automate without tying up too much capital.
Of course, there are risks and technical considerations. A new robot minimises technical uncertainty and offers a longer operational horizon. A refurbished robot, meanwhile, should be checked for mechanical condition, tested for functionality, and assessed for its history and compatibility with the process peripherals. Ultimately, the success of the integration depends less on the robot itself and more on the project’s engineering: the quality of tooling, programming, safety measures, maintenance, and process stability.
Choosing between a new and a refurbished robot isn’t about personal preference—it’s about strategy. Both are valid options, as long as their strengths, limitations, and the operating context are well understood. An objective technical and financial analysis will help determine which choice best fits your process, budget, and production goals.
If you’re considering automation, take a close look at your real needs, the project’s scope, and your investment horizon. Objectively comparing your options is the first step to making a smart, efficient decision that will improve your operation’s efficiency, stability, and competitiveness.
At URT, we recognise the value this robot brings to highly demanding sectors such as electronics, and we offer solutions that enable our customers to integrate ABB technology into their production lines to achieve new levels of efficiency and competitiveness.